CARSON, Calif. — Norwegian defender Jorgen Skjelvik has joined the LA Galaxy on a free transfer.

The five-time MLS champions announced the deal with Skjelvik on Thursday.

The 26-year-old Skjelvik joined Norwegian powerhouse Rosenborg in 2013 and played on three Eliteserien title-winning teams. He recorded six goals and 13 assists while appearing in 163 games for the club in central defence.

Skjelvik also has played six games for Norway, including two recent appearances in World Cup qualifiers.

The Galaxy are rebuilding their defence after yielding a franchise-record 67 goals last season and finishing last in the Western Conference.